Berkley High School
General Information
Overview
Berkley High School, located in Berkley, Michigan, is a top-rated public high school serving grades 9–12 within the Berkley School District. Known for its academic excellence, innovative teaching, and strong community support, Berkley High School provides a rigorous curriculum that prepares students for success in higher education and beyond. The school emphasizes a well-balanced educational approach that includes core academics, arts, technology, athletics, and extracurricular involvement. With a mission to develop intellectually curious, responsible, and socially aware individuals, Berkley High School maintains a tradition of excellence built on collaboration, creativity, and inclusivity.
Students benefit from small class sizes, highly qualified teachers, and modern facilities that support learning in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM). Berkley High School is also recognized for its robust Advanced Placement (AP) and honors programs, which challenge students academically while providing opportunities to earn college credit. The school’s community-centered philosophy ensures that every student receives the encouragement and resources needed to excel academically, personally, and socially.
Contact Information
Address: 2325 Catalpa Drive, Berkley, MI 48072
Phone Number: (248) 837-8100
Email Address: info@berkleyschools.org
School Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1928 |
| Motto | “Inspiring Excellence, Fostering Integrity” |
| Type | Public High School |
| Grades | 9–12 |
| District | Berkley School District |
| Mascot | Bears |
| School Colors | Maroon and Blue |
| Principal | Andrew Meloche |
Berkley High School Rankings
| Category | Ranking |
|---|---|
| State Ranking (Michigan) | Top 25 Public High Schools |
| National Ranking | Top 5% of U.S. Public High Schools |
| College Readiness Index | 90+ |
| Graduation Rate | 98% |
Berkley High School Academics
Berkley High School Faculties / Departments
- English and Language Arts Department
- Mathematics Department
- Science Department
- Social Studies Department
- Visual and Performing Arts Department
- World Languages Department
- Health and Physical Education Department
- Career and Technical Education (CTE)
- Counseling and Academic Support Services
- Special Education Department
Berkley High School Courses and Programs / Majors
- Advanced Placement (AP) Courses (Biology, Calculus, U.S. History, Literature, and more)
- Honors-Level Courses
- Engineering and Robotics Program
- Visual Arts, Theater, and Music Programs
- Journalism and Broadcasting
- Computer Science and Coding
- World Languages (Spanish, French, Latin)
- Business and Entrepreneurship
- Dual Enrollment with Local Colleges
Online Learning
Berkley High School provides blended and online learning opportunities through its partnership with Michigan Virtual School and the Berkley Alternative Education Program. These online platforms enable students to take supplemental or advanced courses beyond the traditional classroom setting. This flexibility supports individualized learning pathways and allows students to pursue specialized subjects, credit recovery, or early college experiences while maintaining academic rigor and personal engagement.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| SAT Composite | 1150 |
| ACT Composite | 25 |
| AP Exam Pass Rate | 88% |
| Reading Proficiency | 80% |
| Math Proficiency | 75% |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Berkley High School boasts a student retention rate of 98% and a graduation rate of 98%, reflecting the school’s commitment to student success and engagement. Nearly all graduates continue their education at two- or four-year colleges. Academic advisors and teachers work closely with students to ensure consistent progress and offer personalized support for academic and career planning.
Berkley High School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Although Berkley High School is a public institution and does not require entrance examinations for district residents, its student body typically demonstrates strong academic achievement. The average GPA among students is 3.4, while SAT and ACT scores for college-bound seniors average around 1150 and 25 respectively.
Berkley High School Acceptance Rate
| Category | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| In-District Students | 100% |
| Out-of-District (School of Choice) | 70% |
Berkley High School Application Requirements
Admission to Berkley High School primarily serves residents within the Berkley School District. Out-of-district applicants may apply through the district’s School of Choice program, which considers academic standing, attendance history, and space availability. Students are required to submit recent report cards, standardized test results, and proof of residency. Transfer students undergo an academic review to ensure proper placement in courses that match their skill level.
Application Process
- Complete Berkley School District enrollment application
- Submit academic transcripts or report cards
- Provide proof of residency
- Attend registration and orientation session
- Receive schedule and placement information
Berkley High School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| School of Choice Opens | February 15 |
| Application Deadline | April 1 |
| Orientation and Placement | August 10 |
| First Day of School | August 26 |
Essay Prompt
Berkley High School does not require essays for admission; however, students applying for leadership programs or honors courses may be asked to write short reflective essays about their academic goals and personal growth.
Berkley High School Scholarships
Berkley High School offers various scholarship opportunities through community foundations, local businesses, and alumni associations. Students are encouraged to apply for awards recognizing academic achievement, leadership, and community service. Guidance counselors assist students in identifying scholarships suited to their goals, including state merit-based and need-based awards.
Berkley High School Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition (Public, In-District) | Free |
| School Activity Fee | $50 |
| AP Exam Fee (per test) | $96 |
| Technology/Book Fee | $75 |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
| Demographic | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Female | 52% |
| Male | 48% |
| White | 72% |
| African American | 12% |
| Hispanic | 8% |
| Asian | 6% |
| Other | 2% |
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Approximately 20% of Berkley High School students qualify for free or reduced lunch programs, ensuring equitable access to educational resources. The school provides strong support systems for students with disabilities through Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and specialized instructional support. Dedicated resource staff and counselors collaborate to promote inclusion and academic success for all learners.
Student Body
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Students | 1,040 |
| Average Class Size | 22 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 18:1 |
| Attendance Rate | 95% |
University Diversity
Berkley High School embraces diversity and inclusion, fostering a welcoming atmosphere for students of all backgrounds. Through multicultural events, equity programs, and student-led clubs, the school cultivates empathy, awareness, and collaboration. The administration actively promotes cultural understanding by integrating diverse perspectives into the curriculum and supporting affinity groups such as the Black Student Union and Gender-Sexuality Alliance. This inclusive culture helps prepare students for participation in an increasingly diverse and interconnected world.
Average Earnings
While Berkley High School does not track alumni earnings directly, graduates consistently attend top universities and pursue successful careers in various fields including business, technology, healthcare, and education. The school’s focus on academic excellence, career readiness, and critical thinking provides students with a foundation that contributes to strong long-term earning potential and professional success.
Berkley High School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Berkley High School employs more than 70 professional educators, including teachers, counselors, and academic support staff. The majority of faculty members hold master’s degrees or higher and bring extensive classroom experience. The staff’s dedication to continuous professional development and student-centered teaching creates a dynamic learning environment where academic growth thrives.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty members at Berkley High School are recognized for their excellence in education, innovation in curriculum design, and active participation in state and national teaching initiatives. Many have received teaching awards and have contributed to educational conferences and research publications. Their commitment to nurturing curiosity, leadership, and lifelong learning reflects the school’s broader mission to empower students toward excellence.
Berkley High School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Berkley High School’s campus features modern classrooms, science labs, an auditorium, an athletics complex, and creative arts spaces. The school offers more than 40 clubs and extracurricular activities, including robotics, debate, theater, band, student government, and community service organizations. Athletics are an integral part of student life, with teams competing in regional and state championships across multiple sports. Although the school does not provide housing, students enjoy a close-knit community atmosphere that encourages collaboration, school spirit, and lifelong friendships.
Transportation
Transportation for Berkley High School students is managed through the Berkley School District’s bus system, ensuring safe and reliable access for students living within the district boundaries. Ample parking and bike racks are available for students who drive or cycle. The school’s central location also allows easy access through local public transportation, making it convenient for students from neighboring areas to attend extracurricular and academic programs.